Third-Quarter Surge Not Enough in Loss at No. 12/15 Harvard
The Dartmouth football team mounted a strong comeback in the third quarter, outscoring Harvard 10–0 to narrow the gap. However, the Crimson regained control in the final quarter to secure the win in Cambridge.
Game Summary
Trailing through the first half, Dartmouth showed resilience after halftime as quarterback Grayson Saunier finished a 12-play, 75-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run. Kicker Owen Zalc followed up with a 46-yard field goal, cutting Harvard’s lead to one possession heading into the fourth quarter.
Despite the momentum, Harvard answered back decisively. Quarterback Jaden Craig connected with Seamus Gilmartin on a 14-yard touchdown pass and later found Brady Blackburn for a 74-yard scoring strike. Kieran Corr added a crucial 38-yard field goal, helping the Crimson maintain their edge.
Scoring Plays
- HAR: Seamus Gilmartin, 14-yd pass from Jaden Craig (Kieran Corr kick) — 13 plays, 71 yds, TOP 5:36
- HAR: Brady Blackburn, 74-yd pass from Jaden Craig (Kieran Corr kick) — 3 plays, 75 yds, TOP 0:57
- HAR: Kieran Corr, 38-yd field goal — 12 plays, 75 yds, TOP 6:27
- DAR: Grayson Saunier, 1-yd run (Owen Zalc kick) — 12 plays, 75 yds, TOP 5:28
- DAR: Owen Zalc, 46-yd field goal — 10 plays, 24 yds, TOP 4:16
- HAR: Logan Reaska, 14-yd pass from Jaden Craig (Kieran Corr kick) — 11 plays, 79 yds, TOP 5:58
“It’s a whole new game! Harvard 17, Dartmouth 10.”
The Big Green’s third-quarter intensity narrowed the score but couldn’t overturn Harvard’s early advantage as the Crimson completed decisive scoring drives late.
Author’s Summary
Dartmouth’s determined third-quarter rally against No. 12/15 Harvard fell short as the Crimson responded with late touchdowns to seal a hard-fought home victory.